ESPN’s ManningCast posts abysmal NFL Week 1 TV ratings

The ManningCast originally gave NFL fans a unique way to experience Monday Night Football, but ESPN’s ratings are significantly struggling.

Eli Manning and Peyton Manning are two league legends that have turned their attention to sports media. However, the former NFL quarterbacks are struggling to draw attention to their ESPN program.

Monday Night Football continues to feature an elite primetime NFL slate each week. Meanwhile, the ManningCast just drew a mere 705,000 viewers during Week 1.

Andrew Marchand reports that the ESPN2 program totaled roughly three percent of MNF’s watchers on ESPN. That’s a troubling sign for the Worldwide Leader in Sports, which has invested in the likable former players since first making their debuts in 2021.

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Eli and Peyton certainly offer a lot of funny moments during their broadcasts. However, ESPN appears to be undergoing some difficult times with the current cast of personalities.

The alternate feed gives fans insight into the game with the Super Bowl winners’ perspectives. The Manning brothers often bring in athletes and celebrities to help keep the show moving as well.

However, that’s been one of the top criticisms from fans recently regarding the ManningCast. The show often strays away from NFL games and draws attention to notable figures.

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Here is the full list of ManningCast games that ESPN will feature throughout the 2026 season. Eli and Peyton will return to the ESPN airwaves in Week 3 with the New York Giants facing the Los Angeles Rams.